MORE than half of all anti-social behaviour orders (Asbos) are breached in part of the region -with some being broken up to 15 times.

However, only a third of the breaches have ended in jail terms, leaving yobs to roam free and menace neighbours.

Figures obtained under the Freedom of Information Act from Northumbria Police show that of the 108 Asbos imposed, there have been 224 breaches.

Peter Colquhoun's family have faced 13 years of misery after being terrorised by yobs in Cowgate, Newcastle. He said: "Having an Asbo means nothing to them. A lot of these people just push the law to the limits and an Asbo means nothing."

Figures show only 77 breaches in the North-East have resulted in prison sentences, but 133 have resulted in non-custodial sentences or second chances.

Communities terrorised by nuisance neighbours and criminals say the figures prove Asbos are not working.

But police said people who breached their orders were being punished, which sent a clear message that Asbos were not to be taken lightly.

Inspector Damian McEnroe, of Newcastle police, said: "We recognise that breaches are currently high.

"However, we are confident this will reduce as the offenders are dealt with by the courts and come to understand that Asbos are a valid means of reducing anti-social behaviour."